Joel Leander Latimer, III

Joel Leander Latimer III, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, pastor, and servant of the Lord, passed away on April 14, 2026, in Macon, Georgia, at the age of 83.

Born on January 17, 1943, in Memphis, Tennessee, Joel lived a life marked by faith, service, and a deep love for family and community. He attended Willingham High School for Boys before proudly serving his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1962 to 1966. Following his military service, he pursued higher education at Auburn University, where he graduated in 1969 with a degree in Electrical Engineering. After graduation, he contributed his talents to the NASA Space Program.

Answering a higher calling, Joel continued his education at Golden Gate Seminary from 1973 to 1976, preparing for a life in ministry. He faithfully pastored several churches in California, including First Baptist Church in Sonoma and First Baptist Church in Rocklin. Upon returning to Georgia, he continued his ministry at Roberta Baptist Church, West Highland Baptist Church, Pine Forest Baptist Church in Macon, Cornerstone Church in Statesboro, and Emmanuel Church in Macon. Joel had a special passion for teaching Bible classes, sharing his knowledge and faith with countless individuals over the years.

Joel was a faithful member of Ingleside Baptist Church. In addition to his ministry, he later retired from the DeKalb Housing Authority. In his free time, he enjoyed playing bridge, golfing, and reading, and was a devoted Auburn fan. A lifelong enthusiast of ham radio, he began operating as a teenager and maintained that passion throughout his life.

Joel was preceded in death by his parents, Joel Leander Latimer Jr. and Virginia Pate Latimer; his brother, Len Latimer; and his great-grandchildren, Baby K, Grayson, and Peanut.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Terri Little Latimer; his daughters, Tracy Wheeler (Doug) and Susan Daffron (Christopher); his grandchildren, Seth Wheeler (Colette), Jesse Wheeler (Megan), Hope Kline (Jacob), Zeke Gargala (Lesly), Luke Gargala, and Owen Gargala; and his great-grandchildren, Emilia, Nora, Mia, Hattie, and Frankie.

Joel will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his servant’s heart, and the love he shared with his family and all who knew him. His legacy of ministry and devotion will continue to live on in the many lives he touched.

A service to celebrate Joel’s life will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Ingleside Baptist Church Chapel, with visitation to follow the service. Attendees are invited to dress casually and wear blue and orange in honor of Joel’s Auburn spirit.

McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.